Equality Trust Response to Conservative Manifesto

Thursday, 18 May, 2017

Dr. Wanda Wyporska, Executive Director of The Equality Trust, said:

"This manifesto appears to be, at best, a mixed bag on inequality reduction. Proposed changes to social care are likely to be significantly progressive, in particular regarding their indirect impact on inherited wealth, though they may prove a tough sell. It is also good to see a commitment to require large and medium sized companies to publish pay ratios. We have campaigned for this for some time, and it is an important step in delivering greater transparency and reduced pay inequality.

"However in committing to planned cuts to social security, an opportunity has been missed. These cuts will hit the poorest households hardest, and will increase inequality. In addition, while raising the personal allowance will help many households on low incomes, it won't help the very poorest, and will disproportionately benefit better off households."

The Equality Trust is a registered charity that works to improve the quality of life in the UK by reducing economic inequality. UK income inequality is among the highest in the developed world and evidence shows that this results in poorer mental and physical health, higher violent crime, poorer educational outcomes and lower levels of trust. Inequality affects us all. For further comments or to arrange an interview, contact John Hood on 07580 651 337 or john.hood@equalitytrust.org.uk